Eight students from the University of Hong Kong (HKU) presented their first-hand experience in the field for conservation projects about endangered Asian animals Thursday, which included giant pandas and white-flag dolphin.

Sponsored by Ocean Park Conservation Foundation of Hong Kong ( OPCFHK), the eight students from the department of Ecology and Biodiversity of HKU participated in four different field research projects recently.

The four projects included studying the threatened Chinese white dolphin in Guangxi, studying the ecosystem of the Defending Nature Reserve in Sichuan province, monitoring the finless porpoise and white-flag dolphin population in Poyang Lake of China, and the study of giant pandas using enrichment items designed by students to stimulate giant pandas physically and mentally so as to keep them healthy in zoological facilities.

"OPCFHK's sponsored program allows these students to experience the rewards and challenges of field work," said Timothy Ng, Administrative Coordinator of OPCFHK.

According to Suzanne M. Gendron, the director of OPCFHK, there are growing opportunities in conservation-related jobs in Hong Kong and the mainland, but the industry is experiencing a shortage of talent and more young professionals are needed.

"OPCFHK is addressing the shortage of talent in the conservation field by inspiring university students, through gaining first-hand experience working on conservation projects while still at university, to pursue a career in conservation," said Gendron.

Ocean Park Conservative Foundation of Hong Kong is established in 1993. It advocates, facilitates and participates in the conservation of Asian wildlife and habitats through research and education. Its vision is to ensure the sustainability of wildlife and biodiversity.

Source: Xinhua